points in common

USAGE SUMMARY

"points in common" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to similarities or shared traits between two or more things. For example, "The two novels have many points in common, from their central themes to their settings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

But the performances had interpretive points in common as well: the quartet's signature, in a sense.

The New York Times - Arts

I wasn't thinking of it, but, it's true, the two pieces have points in common.

The New Yorker

If Claude Miller has points in common with me, it's more a question of affinity.

The Guardian - Film

"But we appreciate the opportunity to identify some points in common and some areas of cooperation".

The New York Times

"Homeland" and "The Manchurian Candidate" do have points in common, though.

The New Yorker

The reasons for those failures are very different though they have important points in common.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

They have another point in common.

Independent

The two sides have a final point in common.

The New York Times

D.P.: Well, I agree they're not exactly the same, but the point in common — J.R.R.: Yes, well, they can have a point in common without it being the morally relevant point in common.

The New Yorker

"I'm saying there are many reasons, and the point in common is these are young Muslims.

The New Yorker

But what I see is that there's a point in common among those people — they're Muslims".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing different subjects, clearly specify the "points in common" to provide a focused and understandable analysis. For example, instead of simply stating that two theories have "points in common", elaborate on what those specific points are.

Common error

Avoid stating that things have "points in common" without specifying what these points are. Overgeneralization can make your writing vague and uninformative. Always provide concrete examples of the similarities you're highlighting.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "points in common" functions as a noun phrase that typically serves as the object of a verb (e.g., "have points in common", "share points in common"). It identifies specific shared attributes or characteristics between two or more subjects. Ludwig provides numerous examples that illustrate this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "points in common" is a versatile and frequently used expression to highlight shared characteristics or similarities between different subjects. As verified by Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and widely applicable across various domains including news, science, and encyclopedic content. While alternatives like "shared characteristics" or "commonalities" exist, "points in common" is particularly useful when specifying particular shared aspects. A key best practice is to always specify what those "points in common" are to avoid vague or overgeneralized statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shared characteristics

Focuses on the characteristics that are shared, rather than the specific points.

common attributes

Emphasizes the qualities or features that are shared.

similar aspects

Highlights the aspects or features that are alike.

shared features

Stresses the elements or characteristics that are mutually present.

mutual similarities

Highlights the similarities that exist between different entities.

corresponding elements

Indicates elements that have a direct correspondence or similarity.

parallels

Suggests a similarity or analogy between different things.

similarities

A more general term for resemblances or shared qualities.

commonalities

Highlights shared qualities or characteristics.

areas of agreement

Focuses on the aspects where there is alignment or consensus.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "points in common" in a sentence?

To effectively use "points in common", clearly specify the subjects you're comparing and the exact similarities between them. For example, "Despite their different approaches, both researchers share several "points in common", including a focus on sustainability and innovative design."

What are some alternatives to "points in common" that I can use?

You can use alternatives like "shared characteristics", "common attributes", or "similar aspects" depending on the context. All these can replace the original phrase.

Is it better to say "points in common" or "commonalities"?

Both "points in common" and "commonalities" are acceptable, but "points in common" is often used when you want to specify the exact similarities, while "commonalities" is a more general term for shared qualities.

What's the difference between "points in common" and "similarities"?

"Points in common" refers to specific, identifiable shared traits, while "similarities" is a broader term indicating a general resemblance. Use "points in common" when you need to highlight particular shared aspects.